Applying for the Global Insurance Health Card (GHIC) EHIC

If you are holidaying or travelling to Spain, you will be entitled to apply for the GHIC.

Pensioners, overseas workers and others who hold an S1 may be entitled to the EHIC.

Healthcare centers in Spain will normally accept the EHIC without considering residency status. Those not entitled to use the GHIC/EHIC in Spain, can be charged for the full cost of treatment.

NHS Overseas Healthcare Team. “For most people, the UK GHIC replaces the existing EHIC for new applications. If you have an existing EHIC, it will remain valid until the expiry date on the card.

The UK GHIC and UK EHIC scheme is residency-based. For most applicants, this means you must permanently live in the UK to be entitled to a UK GHIC.
When you apply, you’ll go through a UK residency check to make sure you’re entitled to a card.

However, there are some exceptions to this, for example applications made on behalf of children.

As part of this check, you may be asked to send us documents to prove you’re a UK resident or have the right to reside in the UK.

If evidence is required to support your application, you’ll be notified by email. The email will explain what evidence you can provide.

Full Information UK Government

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.